Governor Seyi Makinde has reassured residents of Oyo State that the government and security agencies are intensifying efforts to secure the release of the pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities of Oriire Local Government Area.
In a message addressed to the people of Oyo State on Friday, the governor acknowledged the pain and anxiety being experienced by families and communities 27 days after the victims were taken away by their abductors.
Makinde said he understood that repeated assurances from the government may no longer provide comfort to the affected families, but insisted that every available effort was being deployed to ensure the safe return of the victims.
“It has been 27 days since our children and teachers were forcefully taken from their schools. For 27 days, families have gone to bed without their loved ones, and communities have lived with uncertainty,” the governor said.
He noted that while the government could not disclose operational details for security reasons, authorities were actively pursuing every credible lead and taking all lawful measures necessary to secure the release of those in captivity.
The governor assured parents, relatives and colleagues of the abducted victims that they had not been forgotten, stressing that their safe return remains a top priority for the state government.
Makinde revealed that security reports indicated the abducted pupils and teachers were still being held within the wider Old Oyo National Park axis, a vast area spanning parts of 10 local government areas and covering approximately 2,500 square kilometres.
According to him, the size and terrain of the area underscore the complexity of the rescue operation and highlight the need for patience, coordination and persistence.
He called on residents across the state to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the Oyo State Citizens Enquiry toll-free line, 615, which operates round the clock.
The governor also appealed to members of the public to avoid spreading unverified information about the abduction, warning that misinformation could undermine ongoing rescue efforts.
He urged citizens to continue supporting security agencies and to pray for the safe return of the victims.
“Continue to remain vigilant and support the efforts of our security agencies as we work towards bringing every one of them home safely,” Makinde stated.
The governor thanked residents for their patience, vigilance and prayers, assuring them that the state government would continue to provide factual updates on developments surrounding the rescue operation.
